Mangalore: A controversy is now brewing over the issue of the death of a MESCOM lineman named Gerald Veigas who got electrocuted while he was rectifying some defect in Vamanjoor.
 
Dennis D’Silva, State Convenor of the International Fedeeration of Karnataka Christians’ Association (IFKCA) who spoke to reporters here on May 29, Tuesday, said Gurumurthi, the branch officer of Vamanjoor feeder had taken Gerald Veigas from Thokur and another Shanthakumar for repair without the permission of the authorities of the Kavoor branch. According to him, they were forcibly made to rectify the defect without providing them any safety gears.

Dennis also alleged that even when Gerald was electrocuted, Gurumurthi instead of rushing to his aid, fled the place. Though the relatives of the deceased lineman lodged a complaint, so far there is no action against the officer concerned, he said and added even the Mangalore Division MESCOM Chief Executive Officer Manjappa had tried to clarify that employees of one branch could be deployed to another branch for any work. This, he said was done  just to safeguard the interests of Gurumurthi.

Dennis demanded the suspension of both Gurumurthi and Manjappa and also demanded  that the MESCOM extended financial aid for the children of Gerald.

Zeena, wife of the deceased Gerald, his mother Latitia Veigas and children were present at the press meet.